Thai challenges Suico to unification bout

Calling him a B-fighter who fights only patsies, unbeaten Thai Saddam Kietyongyuth has challenged OPBF lightweight champion Randy Suico to a unification duel at the soonest possible time “even in his own backyard.”

The 25-year-old Saddam, who owns an impeccable record of 16 wins, no loss with 12 KO’s, holds the WBC-ABC lightweight title, and event hinted at unifying the title with Suico with the winner moving into a possible world title crack should reigning champ Manny Pacquiao decide to remain in the higher weight division after fighting Oscar de la Hoya.

“Suico is a tough and powerful fighter. But I am ready to trade shots with him. I know I can handle his power. We’ll see if he can handle mine,” Saddam was quoted as telling the media.

The Krabi-born, Bangkok-based fighter, who has beaten a series of tough Filipinos on his way to building a good resume, is promoted by Australia-based Daniel Potter, who earlier indicated that he would be more than willing to promote a fight in the Philippines just to lure Suico into the ring with his ward.

“If Suico is interested, we can hold the fight sometime in February. We will offer him a reasonable amount to face my fighter, and we can event do it in his own backyard,” said the boxing impresario, who also promotes ex-WBA king Yodsanan Nanthachai.

Suico (28-3-1, 24 KOs) is slated to defend his OPBF title against Ichitaro Ishii on Dec. 20, and depending on the outcome of his fight, should be available to see action again in late February or sometime March.

“Ishii will be an easy fight for Suico. Let him face somebody who has a belt, undefeated and wants him. That would have to be me,” Saddam said.